Bumps on Lips

Bumps on lips are not only a cosmetic concern, but they may be painfully annoying too. In this article we discuss some treatment measures to manage the condition, followed by some info on the underlying cause of the condition.

HealthHearty Staff

Last Updated: Apr 23, 2018

Bumps on lips could be caused by a mild injury or by something as severe as a sexually transmitted infection. In any case, if the bumps are not showing any kind of healing, then it is imperative that you go for a medical diagnosis.

How to Treat Bumps on Lips

Ointments and Antibiotics

Treatment depends upon the nature of bumps and the underlying reason. Topical creams and lip ointments can cure the irritation and soreness on the lips. There are ointments that relieve the pain, soften the crust of the sores, and numb the blisters. Antibiotics also prevent secondary bacterial infections. Lidex ointment is often prescribed by doctors for lichenoid eruptions.

Surgery and Grafting

In serious cases, surgeries and skin grafts are also done. However, this is the last option to restore the original texture of lips by permanently getting rid of the bumps.

Liquid Nitrogen Treatment

Liquid nitrogen is often used to treat lip bumps resulting from skin cancer. The blisters are burned by liquid nitrogen. The scabs and scars take considerable time to heal.

Home Remedies

At home you can nourish your lips with coconut oil, cocoa butter, and aloe vera. Keep your lips moisturized with petroleum jelly to prevent it from becoming dry and flaky.

Causes

Inadequate Lip Care

The most common reason behind development of bumps and sores on lips is inadequate lip care. It is more often observed during winters when your lips become excessively dry and flaky. People who have the habit of biting/licking lips continuously are more prone to suffer from lip inflammation. Tiny red bumps appear due to lack of moisture, which might also bleed.

Bilateral Infection

Bumps on the lips can be itchy and painful. Itchy bumps on lips resemble blisters, which might result from allergic reactions and poisonous insect bites. Red bumps often swell and are terribly painful. In another case, they might crowd in corners of the mouth and get filled with pus. If you observe these symptoms, then it could be a case of angular cheilitis. It is a medical terminology for an inflammatory lesion occurring at the corner of the mouth, also called labial commissures. The infection is bilateral.

Spongiosis and Lichenoid Inflammation

Spongiosis and lichenoid inflammation also give rise to red bumps on lips. This type of infection lasts for 3-4 days and then disappears. The small red bumps erupt again after few days. It is caused due to exposure of lips to allergens or oral medications.

Fever Blisters from HSV1

Tiny bumps can also be fever blisters or canker sores. These two are the most common mouth disorders that cause immense discomfort. Fever blisters, also called cold sores are highly contagious. They result from infection with herpes simplex virus type 1. Children are also vulnerable to this virus.

Sexual Contact with HSV 2 Individuals

Herpes infection might also be contracted from kissing, oral sex, and sharing drinks with people. Since it is a contagious virus, the infection spreads to people who come in close contact with the affected individuals. Herpes simplex virus A and B, both are responsible for spreading sexually transmitted diseases.

Other Reasons

Similar bumps are noticed when you undergo stress and get exposed to sunlight for long hours. Women might observe this during menstrual cycles. Oral cancers, ulcers, and chemical burns also cause bumps on lips.

Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and chewing tobacco. Doctors always suggest not to indulge in any kind of sexual acts with people suffering from sexually transmitted diseases. You should not apply chemical products on your lips if you are allergic to them. If you find any painful bumps on lips, do not neglect. Visit a dermatologist and get the treatment done before they aggravate.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.